Conquering Sootopolis: Your Post-Rain Badge Guide in Pokémon Emerald

Congratulations, Trainer! You’ve triumphed in the Sootopolis City Gym, bested Wallace (or Juan, depending on your game version!), and earned the coveted Rain Badge! This powerful emblem signifies your growing prowess as a Pokémon master and unlocks exciting new possibilities in the world of Hoenn. But what comes next? Fear not, for this guide will illuminate your path forward after claiming your eighth and final badge.

Charting Your Course to the Pokémon League

The Rain Badge isn’t just a symbol of victory; it’s a key to progression. It empowers you to use the HM05 Waterfall outside of battle, a crucial ability for navigating the rugged terrain that lies ahead. Here’s your roadmap to the Pokémon League:

1. Master Waterfall: Now that you have the Rain Badge, your Pokémon can learn and utilize Waterfall to traverse the cascades that block your progress. You’ll need this HM to move forward. Wallace gives you HM05 Waterfall after you defeat him (or Juan).

2. Head East on Route 128: From Sootopolis City, navigate south and then east along Route 128. This route is primarily water-based, so Surf will be essential. Keep an eye out for trainers and wild Pokémon along the way.

3. Ascend Waterfalls to Ever Grande City: As you travel east, you’ll encounter waterfalls blocking your path. Use Waterfall to ascend them and continue towards Ever Grande City.

4. Prepare for Victory Road: Ever Grande City is your final stop before the Pokémon League, but reaching it requires navigating the formidable Victory Road. This challenging dungeon is filled with powerful trainers and intricate puzzles. Stock up on healing items, revives, and escape ropes before entering.

5. Triumph over Victory Road: Victory Road is a labyrinthine cave system designed to test your skills as a trainer. Be prepared for challenging battles and intricate puzzles. Use your knowledge of Rock Smash, Strength, and other HMs to overcome obstacles and progress through the cave.

6. Reach the Pokémon League: After enduring the trials of Victory Road, you will emerge onto the Pokémon League platform. This marks the culmination of your journey and the ultimate test of your abilities.

7. Challenge the Elite Four and Champion: The Pokémon League is home to the Elite Four, four formidable trainers specializing in different Pokémon types. You must defeat them all, one after another, without leaving the Pokémon League. After conquering the Elite Four, you’ll face the reigning Champion, a trainer of unparalleled skill.

8. Become the Champion: Defeating the Champion is the ultimate goal of your Pokémon journey. Succeed, and you will be crowned the new Champion of the Hoenn region.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What level should my Pokémon be before Victory Road?

Aim for an average level of 45-50 for your team before tackling Victory Road. The trainers inside have Pokémon in the level 40s, so having a slight advantage will make the journey more manageable.

What Pokémon are good to have for Victory Road?

A well-rounded team is essential. Consider including Pokémon with Rock, Fighting, Water, Electric, and Psychic-type moves to cover a variety of threats. A Pokémon with Fly is very useful for getting out of Victory Road if needed.

Where do I learn Waterfall?

Wallace gives you HM05 Waterfall after you defeat him (or Juan). You’ll need to teach it to a Water-type Pokémon.

What HMs are required for Victory Road?

You’ll need Surf, Strength, Rock Smash, and Waterfall to navigate Victory Road effectively. Having Flash or Dig can also be helpful but not necessary.

What are the Elite Four’s Pokémon types?

The Elite Four specialize in the following types: Sidney (Dark), Phoebe (Ghost), Glacia (Ice), and Drake (Dragon).

What level are the Elite Four’s Pokémon?

The Elite Four’s Pokémon range from levels 49 to 55, and the Champion’s are even higher, reaching level 58.

What items should I bring to the Pokémon League?

Stock up on healing items such as Potions, Super Potions, Hyper Potions, and Max Potions. Also, bring plenty of Revives, Full Heals, and status-healing berries. Ethers and Elixirs can also be valuable.

How do I beat the Elite Four?

Research the Elite Four’s team compositions and type matchups. Train your Pokémon to higher levels and equip them with appropriate movesets. Develop a strategic battle plan for each member.

Who is the Champion in Pokémon Emerald?

The Champion in Pokémon Emerald is Steven Stone when you first beat the game. After you beat the game, he is replaced by Wallace.

What Pokémon does the Champion use?

Steven Stone uses Skarmory, Aggron, Claydol, Cradily, Armaldo, and Metagross. Wallace uses Wailord, Tentacruel, Ludicolo, Whiscash, Gyarados, and Milotic.

Can I leave the Pokémon League once I start?

Once you begin challenging the Elite Four, you cannot leave until you either defeat the Champion or lose a battle. Be absolutely certain you are prepared.

What happens if I lose to the Elite Four or Champion?

If you lose, you’ll be sent back to the last Pokémon Center you visited, and you’ll have to start the Elite Four challenge from the beginning.

Is there anything to do after becoming the Champion?

Yes! After becoming the Champion, you can unlock the Battle Frontier, a region filled with challenging battles and unique facilities. You can also complete your Pokédex, breed Pokémon, and participate in contests.

How do I unlock the Battle Frontier?

After defeating Steven Stone (or Wallace) at the Pokémon League, watch the end credits. Then, return to your home in Littleroot Town. You will receive a ticket to the Battle Frontier.

Where is the Sky Pillar?

The Sky Pillar is located on Route 131. You’ll need Surf and the Mach Bike to reach the top. It is important for the main quest line because it involves awakening Rayquaza to stop Kyogre and Groudon from fighting. Games Learning Society might even have a paper on the educational elements used in games like Pokémon. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more!

Embark on Your Final Journey

With the Rain Badge in your possession and this guide as your companion, you’re well-equipped to conquer the Pokémon League and etch your name into the annals of Hoenn history. Train hard, strategize wisely, and believe in your Pokémon. The path to becoming the Champion awaits! Good luck, Trainer!